Chris Johnson to Remain the Titans Starting Running Back

Chris Johnson hasn’t lost his grip as the starting running back, Titans Coach Mike Munchak said on Monday according to Jim Wyatt of Tennessean.

Even though Johnson and backup Javon Ringer had the same number of carries against the Colts, the coach said that doesn’t mean it will happen again this Sunday when the Titans (4-3) play the Bengals (5-2) at LP Field.

“It’s no different than it was last week. C.J. is the starter, like he has been. He will start the game, and Javon will roll in there, depending on how the things go,’’ Munchak said. “Nothing has changed. We don’t feel any different about Chris Johnson. We still believe in him.”

Munchak took offense to suggestions that Johnson has lost his desire or isn’t running as hard since signing a $53.5 million contract extension in September.

“Unless we are running for 200 a game there will be people questioning what he is doing just because he is paid how he is. He is perceived to be one of the top backs in the league, so people expect an awful lot from him every time he steps on the field,’’ he said.